a bleeding purple utah jazz blog

Andrei Kirilenko staying in Russia with CSKA Moscow this season

Andrei has decided to stay in Russia this season, where he can continue playing in beautiful, wild horse mode, and I don’t have to see him in another team’s uniform. Win-win, and awesome New Year’s Eve.

Andrei Vatutin, PBC CSKA President: I think that Andrey’s long-awaited decision is the best New Year gift for all CSKA and Russian fans they could imagine. It’s great that we will meet the New Year with such good news. AK-47 did not just proved that he is the important chain of our team, tremendously valuable, dedicated player. He showed that he is a true patriot, a man who does not look for quick benefits, who tries to please basketball fans all over the country, to raise our favorite sport popularity. I am glad to know that the decision was taken by Andrey in best of interests of CSKA team, it is very important for all of us.

Our club was always following “All for one and one for all” principle. I know that Kirilenko had a number of options to leave, and every option had its own value – in means of finances, life conditions, possibilities to win in the NBA. Therefore Andrey’s decision is even more valuable for us.

Andrey Kirilenko, CSKA forward: During this month I considered different options, weighting out all pros and contras, and I came to the conclusion that I should finish this season with CSKA. We developed great team chemistry, the real team in the first part of the season. It would be incorrect to stop halfway. It would be unfair toward my teammates and, more importantly, toward fans. I know how many people count on me.

To play for CSKA is a great pleasure and fun, and I will do my best to win all the tournaments we are participating in. I am thankful to club’s management for patience in my difficult situation. Thank you very much to all the fans for their support! Come to our games to cheer for CSKA!

CKSA went undefeated in the Euroleague’s regular season. The Top 16 will kick off on January 18th.

Update: For whatever reason, AK(‘s decision) is trending in Spain. Isn’t that soccer country? Didn’t know anyone cared about basketball in Spain. (Thanks to C for the tip.)

I get that preference. I have to say that the way CSKA and a lot of European teams play–set plays, everyone always moving and cutting, very little one-on-one–reminds me of old school Jazz. Sadly I also have to say I vastly prefer that to what we’re getting from the Jazz right now.